Debunking Anxiety-Fallacy With Logical Argument
At the end of the first “How To Think Sideways” lesson, Holly points us to some further reading, particularly for those who are primarily right-brain oriented (like me). I found the material on “logical argument” and “fallacy” particularly fascinating (especially when I could grasp them in relation to given examples). I could see how this topic would connect to my university studies; critical thinking, and presenting arguments in assignments. It resonated with me in a way I would not have been prepared for or open to before I began my university studies.
But what was more inspiring was how the “logical fallacy” readings clicked within me with regard to the “FEEL never thinks” aspect of Holly’s course. One of the greatest “opportunities” I’ve been facing with my writing is anxiety. I realised that I spend a great deal on the emotion rather than the logic.
As I was reading through the “logical fallacy” and “logical argument” material I realised that I could use these to debunk anxious thoughts (aka emotional unTHINKing). It’s just the same as when I use logic “this dress is $79.99, I could buy three $25.99 dresses for less than this single dress, therefore this dress is too expensive” to talk myself out of an emotional “I want this dress” (and possibly into buying three dresses instead of one) while shopping.
I could apply logical argument to the logical fallacies that presented as writing anxiety. Like this:
Anxiety = logical fallacy: You don’t know your protagonist well enough to portray him effectively on the page.
- Argumentum ad ignorantiam (argument to ignorance)
You haven’t tried to write yet so you don’t know how well you know your protagonist or if you could effectively write him on the page. - Argumentum ad logicam (argument to logic).
Your argument is based on the assumption that you do not know your protagonist “well enough” yet there is no conclusive evidence as to how well you do or do not know him. - Argumentum ad verecundiam (argument or appeal to authority)
Who is the judge of your “effectiveness” and how can YOU judge your effectiveness unless you have material from which to make such judgements? Who is the judge of how “well” you need to know your protagonist to write him effectively and how can YOU determine at which point you might know him “well enough”? - Non Sequitur (“It does not follow”)
Just because you do not know your protagonist well does not mean that you could not portray him effectively on the page if you tried.
As I wrote this logical argument I realised that this example also ties in with PERFECT never finishes (I may never feel I know my protagonist “well enough” to make an effective portrayal – effective could be synonymous with perfect),
and SAFE never starts (I won’t write anything if I’m waiting to know my protagonist “well enough” to be effective).)
It’s incredible these insights and “AHA!” moments I’m discovering through this writing course. And it’s only week one! I’m eager to explore the course material further and I’m looking forward to the weeks ahead.
Hi, Rebecca–
Good post–and proof that even the most personal observations can also be universal. I replied to your companion post in the forum. You are going to benefit greatly from these classes. And we are going to get a kick in the pants (that’s Texan for increased motivation and energy) from having you among us. Nice to see you!
Texanne´s last [type] … Just keep flowing
Thanks, Texanne. I’m very inspired by all I’ve covered in Holly’s course so far and it’s still only week one. I think this course is going to completely blow me away as it continues to progress.
To be honest, I’m a little worried that I might be too boisterous in the forums. I can talk, a LOT, and I don’t want to leave anyone feeling like they’ve been run over by the Mack-Truck that is Becca descending. lol I’m sure my rambling long posts that buzz with energy and excitement must drive some people nuts. Please, don’t be afraid to tell me to shut up or step down if I’m too tenacious in there. Or, if you think that kind of energy really is a positive influence on the group let me know so I’m not writhing in anxiety (I fear people secretly don’t like me) with regard to my conduct.
I think THAT one right there is one I need to debunk tonight. Thanks for giving me my project for a 10-minute burst of logic. :-)